21st Jan 2006, 08:08

It is really great. I've had so many fun with it. I just recently have some trouble with the carburetor. Can anyone help me to know about its carburetor nozzles and their diameters? (hamidfp@gmail.com)

1975 Mazda 808 Wagon 1.4/1.3 from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

Faults:

Ignition would hold the key in the ignition barrel. Easily repaired by pulling out the ignition barrel and cleaning.

Rear drum brake shoes came loose. The pins that hold them to the backing plate had worn through, and no longer locked. Bought new pins from the brake shop, and replaced myself.

Destroyed the old 1400cc engine driving through a creek crossing. The fan caught the water, and sucked into the radiator. This caused the radiator to empty, and I cooked the motor. I have since replaced it with a 1300cc motor.

Original shock absorbers were worn out when I bought the car. I have since replaced them with aftermarket Koni ones.

General Comments:

The car is used for setting up rallies. It is cheap, cheerful, and very capable. It treads where some four wheel drive vehicles (RAV4, Forester, CR-V) fear to go.

I have slowly upgraded it as I have gone. It now has the bare minimum of interior trim (no carpet, sound deadening, centre console, radio, etc).

1974 Mazda 808 Station Wagon 1.3L from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

Faults:

Car would not idle. Tore apart the carburettor about a dozen times. Found out eventually that the PCV valve had fallen out (held on with plumbing tape by the previous owner).

Ran for about 5000km with a dud battery. Had to start it by pushing it.

Went to see how fast it would go. Got to 125 km/h and rear wheels caught alight.

Speedo needle wobbled a lot and then stopped completely.

Lost the key and bashed into the ignition with a screwdriver and hammer. Started with the screwdriver. The whole car would suddenly die at most inopportune moments. Would die at lights. Oil stick was clean (i.e. no oil). Then would condense and I'd drive the car off. Eventually loud noises and then a BANG and clouds of grey smoke. I think the camchain went.